Fantastic news for Ms Bellis, the OHS community and NZ Drama nationwide!

In her new NZQA Specialist Subject Advisor Phase 5 role, Ms Bellis will literally be shaping how Drama is taught and assessed for Year 11–13 students nationwide. For Drama education in New Zealand, the appointment is a huge win. It's rare to find someone with her specific mix of professional performance, award-winning directing, and high-level academic leadership.

Deputy Principal Ms Karen Bellis grew up in the United Kingdom, and her love of the art saw her perform in professional theatre productions from the age of 13. Her involvement in Drama has made her a polished, award-winning performer, producer, and director.

Her teaching career spans 29 years in the UK and NZ, including her tenure as HOD at Rosmini College, where her 2019 production of The Ladykillers performed at the Pumphouse Theatre. The show went on to dominate that year's Showdown Awards across acting, directing, and technical design.

In her new national role, Ms Bellis brings a vital “boots on the ground” perspective to the curriculum, informed by decades of real classroom experience and professional creative work. Her expertise will help shape high‑quality, relevant Drama teaching that supports both students and teachers across Aotearoa.